How Machine Control Enhances Project Accuracy and Reduces Waste in Construction

Machine control has evolved greatly since its introduction in the 1990s, and it’s placed added emphasis on the role of precision in improving construction accuracy. With such advanced solutions at your disposal, why rely on outdated methods and unnecessary manual work? This guide will explain everything you need to know about construction project management and machine control systems.

Understanding Machine Control Technology

Machine control is a combined system of hardware and software that helps operators accurately determine the machine’s position relative to the work surface. This positioning assistance enables the operator to more precisely move the equipment in accordance with the project requirements.

For example, an operator might load the project’s design into their machine to determine whether they are staying within the appropriate measurements. Design data is typically accessible via physical memory sticks or a cloud-based file-sharing system, depending on the specific tool you use and your fleet’s general capabilities.

2D Machine Control

A 2D machine control system creates a two-dimensional image of the job site, allowing operators to gauge their equipment’s position in relation to the surface and other important objects more accurately. These systems are better suited to less complex projects, such as basic slopes and pads. They also tend to be more cost-efficient due to their simple design.

2D machine control systems include the following parts:

• Sonic sensors: Electronic devices that measure distances and equipment positioning using sound waves.
• Laser receivers: A sensor that detects hidden laser beams during laser leveling and similar operations.
• Rotary lasers: A device that projects and rotates a laser at high speeds to create a 360-degree line in any direction.

You can also add 2D technologies to a 3D system to increase your flexibility when approaching new jobs.

3D Machine Control

Construction crews looking for additional assistance on complex jobsites will need a system with more features than its 2D counterpart. A 3D system includes all the capabilities of a 2D system with more advanced capabilities, enabling operators to handle more difficult jobs with ease. 

The key components of 3D machine control are:

• Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities
• Lasers
• Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) connectivity
• Robotic total station systems

These systems can also include GNSS enhancements, like mmGPS systems, for additional directional functionality.

Construction Applications for Machine Control

Since this technology has been in use for decades, it has clear applications in various industries beyond construction. Machine control systems are excellent tools for various construction tasks, including but not limited to:

• Surface preparation: Automation can help operators grade a surface without error by stopping the machine when the appropriate grade is reached, preventing unnecessary extra work.
• Earthmoving: You can attach machine control sensors and laser receivers to an excavator and automatically dig to the appropriate depth without any additional hassle.
• Paving: Whether you’re paving a road or a parking lot, automated systems like machine control help to ensure you apply a consistent layer of asphalt along the surface to be paved.

Benefits of Machine Control in Construction Projects

Some of the most significant benefits of construction automation and guidance systems include:

• Improved precision and accuracy: Globally, 52% of all construction rework is the result of bad data and miscommunications. Data-driven heavy equipment automation and sensors in machine control systems work together to ensure your work stays within the appropriate measurements.
• Increased efficiency: More precise work can eliminate the need for rework, enhancing construction site efficiency and enabling you to minimize the cost of consumables.
• Reduced waste: By preventing mistakes, machine control can help your company improve waste reduction in construction projects and raise work quality.
• Cost savings: You can integrate most machine control technologies directly into your existing machines, which reduces your need to buy all-new equipment just to access the latest tech.
• Enhanced safety: Sensors and GPS data provide greater visibility into the machine’s position on the jobsite, limiting the risk of serious miscalculations.

How to Integrate Machine Control Systems Into Your Projects

In most situations, you’ll follow this process to successfully implement heavy equipment automation into your fleet:

1. Choose the Right Tools

Does your application call for simple 2D guidance, or do you need advanced 3D machine automation? Consider what the most work-intensive area of your jobsite is, and how you can address it with the tools that are available to you.

If you’re unsure about what you need, your equipment provider will be there for you. Consulting with the experts at your nearest construction technology branch can help you pinpoint the solutions that will best fit your specifications.

2. Train Your Team

Training is a critical component of every technology implementation because it ensures your employees understand how to use the equipment to its highest potential. Depending on what is offered and your schedule, you can hold training sessions either on your site or at a third-party location.

An equipment dealer that provides training services for your staff improves your likelihood of generating a faster return on investment (ROI) and keeps jobsite safety high. They can provide your team with comprehensive tips and strategies about how to use their equipment.

3. Building a Long-Term Strategy

The most important part of a successful machine control implementation is ensuring your investment will provide ongoing benefits to your company. Creating an effective long-term strategy is key. Some important considerations to make include:

• Clearly define goals: First, outline the specific objectives you wish to reach by implementing machine control in your fleet. Defining these goals can help you determine the effectiveness of your investment.
• Get stakeholder buy-in: It can be difficult to ensure a successful implementation without approval from key stakeholders at every level of your organization. Explaining the benefits and potential for a strong ROI is important for justifying your investment to anyone who may be resistant.
• Monitor progress: Use hard data and qualitative customer feedback to determine how well your new technology is improving your work. Then, analyze this data to determine key areas for improvement in your typical workflows.

See How Heavy Equipment Automation Enhances Construction Projects With Dobbs Positioning Solutions

If your company is looking for a solution to improve construction quality, raise profits, and help you take on more jobs, Dobbs Positioning Systems is here to help.

We offer a range of 2D and 3D machine control systems from Topcon and John Deere that can fully integrate with new or existing equipment, simplifying construction project management and minimizing costs. We also provide training services to help you and your staff learn how to use the equipment to its fullest potential.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to speak with a representative, or visit your nearest location.